Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hutto, TX (2023 Update)
- Hutto Solar Installation Cost: $14,179
- 25-Year Savings: $22,237
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hutto
We go over average solar pricing in Hutto.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Hutto typically cost about 2.69. The average Hutto homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,179 with the federal tax credit, or $20,276 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Hutto homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Hutto can save around $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Hutto for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Hutto
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,722 |
| 3 years | $-9,809 |
| 5 years | $-6,896 |
| 7 years | $-3,983 |
| 9 years | $-1,069 |
| 11 years | $1,844 |
| 13 years | $4,757 |
| 15 years | $7,671 |
| 17 years | $10,584 |
| 19 years | $13,497 |
| 21 years | $16,410 |
| 23 years | $19,324 |
| 25 years | $22,237 |
Top Solar Installers in Hutto
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since installing solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Hutto:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Hutto
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hutto
Though the average cost of a solar system in Hutto is $14,179, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Hutto, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,690 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can play a part in determining your pricing. Hutto's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.80 | $11,750 | $17,273 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $23,332 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $29,541 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $35,901 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $42,412 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $49,074 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $55,886 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $62,848 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Hutto, TX Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Hutto?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Hutto?
You can't get solar panels for free in Hutto. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Hutto?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.